If you suffer from insomnia or other poor sleep patterns, but you are sensory-avoidant*, then it is unlikely that a weighted blanket will help you sleep better.
But the fact remains that insomnia is debilitating.
Here are three strategies you can use to help improve your sleep – and your health – even when there is a low probability that a weighted blanket will work for you.
Strategy #1: Exercise Early in the Day
According to the Sleep Foundation, people with insomnia who begin to exercise regularly can fall asleep 13 minutes faster and sleep 18 minutes longer.
The good news is that you get the best sleep results with half-an-hour of moderate aerobic activity, like walking.
(This is a case of “less is more”. More vigorous exercise does not help you sleep better or longer.
Exercise also helps relive the physical symptopms of anxiety – which often goes hand-in-hand with insomnia.
So move your body early in the day and sleep better at night.
Strategy #2: Speak to Your Doctor about Alternatives to Sleeping Tablets
Good sleep is central to good health. And if you’re not sleeping, then please let your doctor know so that you can devise a strategy to help you get the rest you need.
They may prescribe sleeping tablets or alternatives such as melatonin. They may also be able to refer you to sleep specialists, who can help you untangle the reasons you’re not sleeping and look for solutions.
Looking for an alternative care solution? We love this amazing and unique Relax Body Oil from our Irish friends at yogandha.com.
Strategy #3: Develop a Calming Bedtime Routine that Relaxes You
Lastly, create a soothing bedtime routine for yourself that reduces the noise in your head, eases the stresses of your day and prepares you to sleep better.
This could include:
- A hot milk drink;
- Reading
- Playing soothing music;
- Or a warm bath.
And you already know the one crucial thing to give you the best chance of a good night’s sleep:
Leave your device alone and keep at least 30 minutes before bedtime screen-free.
Good luck – and please let us know how you get on in improving your personal sleep patterns.
*Sensory-avoidant people do not like experiencing pressure or rough surfaces. You can read more about the different sensory sleep types here.